Hoists

A hoist is a device that is used to lift and lower a load or object that is generally heavy or awkward to carry. 

Hoists

Tab/Accordion Items

What are the hazards associated with hoists?

Fatalities and injuries may occur when hoists are used to lift a load above it's rated capacity, incorrectly, or when it is damaged or malfunctioning. 

What can I do to protect myself?

Unless authorized to be working in or moving through a work area where hoists are being used, employees should remain clear of the area. Never walk under a suspended load.

What resources are available to assist employers?

Safety and Health Programs

Example safety and health programs are available for employers to download and adapt to their specific conditions.

Training and Outreach Services

Example presentations are available along with pre-recorded webinars which can be accessed at any time. In addition, the education, training and technical assistance bureau provides free online safety and health training and outreach services (i.e., speaker's bureau requests, safety booths) upon request.

The NCDOL Library offers free safety and health videos (including a streaming video service) and related research assistance on consensus standards (i.e., ANSI, NFPA, NEC).

Safety and Health Topics

These safety and health topic pages have additional related resource information on aerial lifts, materials handling and storage, competent person, cranes and derricks, slings, crawler locomotive and truck cranes and overhead and gantry cranes.

Consultation Services

The consultative services bureau provides free and confidential onsite consultation regarding worksite safety and health hazards.

Which standards apply?

OSH has adopted the following standards which are applicable to hoists in North Carolina.  This is not all inclusive.

Note: Please also check the standards information and activity webpage to see if there has been any recent or upcoming regulatory activity on this topic.

General Industry

Shipyard Employment

Marine Terminals

Construction

Recordkeeping

Other Applicable Standards

The Which OSHA Standards Apply webpage can also help identify other standards that may be applicable to your worksite.

Where can I learn more?

Industry Guides

Compliance Documents

Technical Assistance

  • Inquiries about workplace safety and health requirements can be submitted to Ask OSH online or by phone at 919-707-7876.